International Women's Day Celebrations

Advancing knowledge and improving the quality of life for societies is the primary occupation of most scientists. However, their work is often shrouded in complexity, technical jargon, and abstract concepts that can be challenging for the general public to understand. As has been exemplified by the COVID-19 pandemic, lack of understanding often leads to mistrust, skepticism, and even hostility towards scientific findings. This has consequences for research, public health, policy decisions, and the overall progress of science. Scientists have a responsibility to communicate their findings clearly and effectively to the public, not least because they employ public money to conduct research. This keynote will examine the barriers that prevent effective communication between scientists and society, and discuss effective strategies for scientists to engage with the public in a way that promotes transparency, accessibility, trust and wider acceptance of the scientific spirit. Through effective science communication, scientists can help bridge the gap between science and society, and foster a more informed and engaged public.